The Bucs struck first as CB Jamel Dean picked off Jets QB Tyrod Taylor and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown in the first half. Baker Mayfield later connected with WR Mike Evans on a 5-yard TD pass to give Tampa Bay a 17-point lead heading into the fourth quarter.
The Jets battled back, scoring twice through the air with Taylor finding Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard for touchdowns. With under two minutes left, Jets LB Will McDonald blocked Chase McLaughlin’s 43-yard field goal attempt and returned it 50 yards for a touchdown to give New York a 27-26 lead.
Mayfield then led the Bucs on a clutch final drive, connecting with Emeka Egbuka and Sterling Shepard to set up McLaughlin’s redemption — a 36-yard game-winner as time expired. Tampa Bay wins 29-27, improving to 3-0 for the first time in 20 years.
The Buccaneers now prepare to host the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles next Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET — you can hear the game on 97.9 WXTB-FM - The Mighty 98 Rock.
PHOTO COURTESY: GETTY IMAGES